Indian Railways Holds Such Joy In Every Ride, Come Away With Us On A Special Train…

The West Bengal government has introduced three new toy trains to the Ghum-Darjeeling circuit to help draw people away from the crazy overcrowded celebrations of Durga Puja in Kolkata. The existing six trains will get additional coaches to accommodate more people as well.

It has been over 150 years since the first railway line was introduced in Mumbai. Since then the Indian railway network has grown to become the most busiest in the world with over 115,000 km of track. And honestly, train is the best way to travel around India.

The sheer versatility of the terrain and the views alone makes it worthwhile. But more so because the extent of the reach of the railways is vast – from remote villages to high peaks. The experience is something that you will not find anywhere else in the world. The train offers a unique opportunity to meet number of people from various parts of the country and an amalgamation of culture.

Here are five journeys that every travel aficionado must take in his/her lifetime.

Toy Train

The Darjeeling toy train is perhaps the most romantic of them all. Feel the little toy train chug along the narrow gauge while billowing steam. The Neelgiri train that goes from Mettupalayam to Ooty is another beautiful ride through the tunnels around the hills. And who can forget the beautiful Kalka-Shimla line which has the numerous tunnels and the snow peaked views.

Travelling like Royalty

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Palace on Wheels, The Indian Maharaja and The Golden Chariot will make you feel like the kings and queens of the bygone era. A massage on the train – personal butlers, salons, a bar, these trains boast of it all. Expensive but worth a ride at least once in your lifetime

The Konkan railway

Image courtesy: Samson Joseph

The western ghats and the greenery makes for one of the most breathtaking journeys you will take in your lifetime. The train meanders through tunnels, hills, green forests and waterfalls.

Nature’s trail

Image courtesy: Wikipedia, Image of New Jalpaiguri station

Island Express and the New Jalpaiguri-Alipurduar Passenger will take you through contrasting terrains but it would be a ride to remember as the natural beauty is exquisite. The Island express takes you through Kerala while the passenger will take you through the forests of Northern Bengal. Take your pick.

Kashmir Railway

Image courtesy: Firstpost

Kashmir Railway is a classic example why Indian railways is so awesome. The train route crosses earthquake zones and is also subjected to extreme hot and cold temperatures and inhospitable terrain, making it an extremely challenging engineering feat. In winters the temperatures fall well below zero and is subject to snowfall. But the tracks endure the extreme conditions and the views are exhilarating.